Dwayne Johnson announced that The Smashing Machine has officially opened in theaters across Japan, marking the latest international release for the MMA biopic centered on former UFC fighter Mark Kerr. Johnson shared the update on Instagram alongside promotional images from the film and reflected on the impact the project had on him during production in Japan.
“Very cool (and wild) news, but true — THE SMASHING MACHINE has just been released in theaters in JAPAN this weekend!🥂 (streaming will be available after the theatrical run),” Johnson wrote.
The actor explained that the movie’s Japanese theatrical rollout had long been scheduled for May 2026 due to international distribution agreements. “Every country around the world has their own distribution rights and Japan’s theatrical window was always scheduled for May 2026,” he added.
Johnson also said filming the movie in Japan changed his perspective and deepened his appreciation for Japanese culture. “I’m absolutely thrilled Japanese fans can finally see our film, Smashing Machine changed my life in many ways, and the time I spent in Japan filming our movie, instilled a deeper appreciation and curiosity for Japanese culture, that I ultimately began to embody and apply to my own lifestyle.”
He concluded the post by teasing his return to the country later this year. “Japan ~ enjoy The Smashing Machine and I’ll see you THIS JULY when I return to your island nation.”
The Smashing Machine stars Johnson as Kerr and follows the rise of the former NCAA wrestling standout during the early years of mixed martial arts between 1997 and 2000. The film also explores Kerr’s struggles with addiction during the peak of his fighting career.
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The cast also features Emily Blunt as Kerr’s girlfriend Dawn, alongside MMA veterans Ryan Bader and Bas Rutten. World heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk also appears in a supporting role.
Mark Kerr Looks Back At His Legendary Pride FC Run
Ahead of the Japanese release of The Smashing Machine, Mark Kerr spoke with Gong Kakutogi Magazine about his years competing in Japan for Pride Fighting Championships.
During the interview, Kerr discussed his transition from amateur wrestling to MMA and revisited several moments from his career, including a planned fight against Royce Gracie that never took place at Pride 2.
Kerr also opened up about the physical and emotional toll of fighting, including his past addiction to steroids and painkillers. “I didn’t have an off button…and the results were just disastrous,” Kerr said.
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The Smashing Machine premiered at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025, where it won the Silver Lion award. The film continues its international rollout following its latest theatrical release in Japan.
